SUV: 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport

By Brian Harper, National Post

Originally published: October 31, 2012

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Hyundai has split its new, third-generation Santa Fe into two distinct models to offer greater appeal and less compromise.

The first to launch is the five-passenger version designated Santa Fe Sport, so named to differentiate it from a longer-wheelbase, seven-passenger V6-powered model that will follow in early 2013. The former rides on a 2,700-millimetre wheelbase with an overall length of 4,689 mm, while the latter features a 2,800-mm wheelbase with an overall length of 4,905 mm.

There are three trim levels for each of the two available engines. The Sport 2.4 FWD, 2.4 Premium FWD/AWD and 2.4 Luxury AWD are powered by a 190-horsepower 2.4-litre GDI four-cylinder. Taking the Sport designation more literally are the 2.0T Premium FWD/AWD, 2.0T SE AWD and the range-topping 2.0T Limited AWD, each with a robust 264-hp 2.0L turbo four.

While fuel consumption is an obvious consideration, the V6-like thrust from the turbo 2.0T makes for a more relaxed and/or entertaining ride. The 2.0T gives up 12 hp to its 3.5L V6 predecessor, but it gains an additional 21 pound-feet of torque for a more usable powerband, while providing 8% better fuel economy.

Helping the cause is an ActiveECO system that modifies engine and transmission control to smooth out throttle response and, Hyundai says, increase real-world fuel economy by up to seven per cent. As with the new Elantra GT, Sport drivers get to play with Hyundai’s new Driver Selectable Steering Mode (DSSM) system. With three operating modes – Comfort, Normal and Sport – the system allows one to adapt the Sport’s steering characteristics to varying driving preferences and road conditions.

The Sport’s cabin carries the Fluidic Sculpture theme as well, with a swoopy dash layout that includes a very sci-fi centre stack. The primary instrumentation is large and brightly lit, with the secondary controls also large, well marked and easy to access.

Leaving the upcoming seven-passenger Santa Fe to buyers with growing families, the Sport will square off against a whole raft of compact SUVs. Although it’s a cutthroat segment, what Hyundai brings to bear in the Sport is a thoroughly attractive design, responsive powertrains and good fuel economy – with a broad price range from which to choose.

Considering how buyers have responded to that recipe with other Hyundai products, the Sport should be a big hit.